Student Vered Adler is the Manager, Business and Corporate Services in a government agency. She works with IT and cybersecurity third party vendors as part of her role and was looking to develop her technical knowledge.
"What has surprised me is that IT is so varied. When I was in high school and university, I thought computer science represented programming and coding – and I never thought that would be for me. IT has transformed into much more, from how to design products people will find useful to networking between devices and the internet,” said Adler.
“My professional role requires me to regularly interact with third party IT providers. I now have the knowledge and confidence to negotiate with them; they can no longer pull the wool over my eyes.”
She has found the study rewarding, interesting and immediately relevant to her role, with course content frequently lining up with challenges within the workplace.
“I have found the online content so engaging. I never thought I’d be excited about getting up at 8 am on a Saturday to go to my computer and complete my lab. The teachers ensure they’re always available to bounce ideas. They motivate us and want to see us excel in this course that encourages women to participate in the male-dominated IT industry.”
Program coordinator Meray Abba, who also teaches user-centred design and cybersecurity foundations, explained the strengths of this program in empowering students with industry skills and confidence.
“This course equips students not only with technical knowledge – but also with a sense of belonging in a male-dominated IT sector,” said Abba.
“Programs like this are invaluable as they break down barriers to education and career advancement. By targeting regional women and non-binary students, we’re not only promoting diversity in the tech industry but also addressing systemic challenges like access to resources and opportunities. The program’s flexibility ensures that students can balance their studies with other commitments, making education more accessible. The regional focus also helps bridge the digital divide by addressing unique challenges faced by students in those areas.”
Find out more about the program and 2025 intake
The student places are supported by the Australian Government’s Women in STEM Cadetships and Advanced Apprenticeships Program, which aims to help women upskill and build careers in STEM, develop a pathway to higher education, produce graduates with workplace skills in STEM, and increase the number of STEM-qualified women in the labour force.
If you are interested in applying for the 2025 cohort, please email ve.partnerships@rmit.edu.au
